alphalan 50mg injection - Melphalan (50mg) medicine

Alphalan 50mg Injection: Comprehensive Medicine Guide

No reviews yet
🏭 Natco Pharma Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 16, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for multiple myeloma and ovarian cancer.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 16, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Fever, chills, or signs of infection
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Severe abdominal pain or diarrhea
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes
  • Decreased urine output
  • Severe allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is alphalan 50mg injection used for?

This medicine is a chemotherapy drug used to treat multiple myeloma and certain other cancers. It works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from growing and dividing. It is given by injection under medical supervision.

  • Generic Name: Melphalan (50mg)
  • Manufacturer: Natco Pharma Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 alphalan 50mg injection के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा मेल्फलान 50 मिलीग्राम इंजेक्शन के रूप में एक कीमोथेरेपी दवा है, जिसका उपयोग मल्टीपल मायलोमा और कुछ अन्य कैंसर के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह कैंसर कोशिकाओं के डीएनए को नुकसान पहुंचाकर उन्हें बढ़ने और विभाजित होने से रोकती है। यह दवा डॉक्टर की देखरेख में इंजेक्शन के माध्यम से दी जाती है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, दस्त, भूख न लगना, मुंह के छाले, थकान और बालों का झड़ना शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में अस्थि मज्जा का दमन, जिससे एनीमिया, संक्रमण का खतरा और रक्तस्राव की समस्या हो सकती है, शामिल हैं। यदि आपको कोई गंभीर लक्षण महसूस हो तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल योग्य स्वास्थ्य पेशेवर की देखरेख में दी जानी चाहिए। नियमित रक्त परीक्षण आवश्यक हैं। संक्रमण वाले लोगों से संपर्क से बचें। इस दवा के दौरान जीवित टीके न लगवाएं। उपचार के दौरान और उसके बाद कुछ समय तक प्रभावी गर्भनिरोधक उपायों का उपयोग करें। पर्याप्त तरल पदार्थ पिएं। संक्रमण, असामान्य रक्तस्राव या चोट के किसी भी लक्षण की तुरंत रिपोर्ट करें।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 alphalan 50mg injection Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Multiple myeloma","description":"Used as part of combination therapy to treat multiple myeloma, a cancer of plasma cells.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Ovarian cancer","description":"Sometimes used in the treatment of ovarian cancer, especially in regional perfusion.","evidence":"Established"},{"condition":"Breast cancer","description":"May be used in certain cases of breast cancer, often in clinical trials or specific protocols.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Polycythemia vera","description":"Rarely used to treat polycythemia vera, a blood disorder.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Amyloidosis","description":"Sometimes used off-label to treat amyloidosis, a rare disease where abnormal proteins build up in organs.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Multiple sclerosis","description":"Investigated in some studies for multiple sclerosis but not standard.","evidence":"Experimental"}]

Primary treatment for: Multiple myeloma

Also treats: Ovarian cancer, Breast cancer, Polycythemia vera

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Melphalan (50mg)
Brand Namealphalan 50mg injection
ManufacturerNatco Pharma Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassANTI NEOPLASTICS
Action ClassAlkylating agent
Route of AdministrationParenteral (intravenous infusion or regional perfusion)
StorageStore refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Protect from light. Do not freeze. Keep in original packaging.
Shelf LifeRefer to the product label for the expiration date. Do not use after the expiry date.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Ensure adequate hydration before and after administration to protect kidney function.
2
Monitor complete blood counts regularly to detect bone marrow suppression early.
3
Use anti-emetics as prescribed to manage nausea and vomiting.
4
Advise patients to use effective contraception during and after treatment.
5
Watch for signs of infection and treat promptly.
6
Consider fertility preservation options before starting treatment.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Multiple myeloma
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
✅
Ovarian cancer
This medicine may be used for this.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionMelphalan is administered intravenously, so absorption is not applicable. Bioavailability is complete and immediate when given intravenously.
DistributionMelphalan distributes widely into body tissues, including bone marrow, liver, and kidneys. It crosses the blood-brain barrier to a limited extent.
Protein BindingMelphalan is approximately 60-90% bound to plasma proteins, primarily albumin.
MetabolismMelphalan undergoes spontaneous hydrolysis in plasma to form monohydroxy and dihydroxy derivatives. It is also metabolized in the liver, but to a lesser extent.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of melphalan is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours after intravenous administration.
ExcretionMelphalan and its metabolites are excreted primarily in the urine, with about 30-50% of the dose excreted in urine within 24 hours.
BioavailabilityNot applicable for intravenous administration; bioavailability is 100%.
Onset of ActionThe onset of action is not immediate; effects on blood counts typically occur within 1-2 weeks after administration.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentration occurs at the end of intravenous infusion.
Duration of ActionThe duration of action is prolonged, with effects on bone marrow lasting for several weeks.

How It Works

Melphalan is an alkylating agent that works by attaching alkyl groups to DNA, causing cross-linking of DNA strands and preventing cell division. This leads to cell death, particularly in rapidly dividing cells such as cancer cells.

Mechanism Steps

1
Uptake into cells: Melphalan enters cells via active transport mechanisms, particularly through amino acid transporters.
2
Formation of reactive intermediates: Inside the cell, melphalan forms highly reactive carbonium ions that can alkylate nucleophilic sites on DNA.
3
DNA alkylation: The reactive intermediates bind to guanine bases in DNA, forming cross-links between DNA strands.
4
DNA damage and cell death: The cross-links prevent DNA replication and transcription, leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis.

💡 How to Take alphalan 50mg injection

Strength: Injection: 50 mg lyophilized powder for reconstitution

1This medicine is given by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinic setting.
2It is administered as an intravenous infusion over 15-30 minutes.
3The dose is prepared by reconstituting the powder with a suitable diluent.
4Follow your doctor's instructions regarding pre-medications to prevent nausea and allergic reactions.
5Drink plenty of fluids before and after administration to help protect your kidneys.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe dose of this medicine is determined by a qualified clinician based on the specific condition being treated, the patient's body weight, and overall health. It is usually given as an intravenous infusion over 15-30 minutes. Common regimens include 16 mg/m² every 2 weeks or 0.25 mg/kg daily for 4 days every 4-6 weeks. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatric oncologist.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, especially bone marrow suppression. Dose adjustments may be necessary based on kidney function and overall health. Close monitoring is required.
Renal ImpairmentDose reduction may be necessary in patients with kidney impairment. Monitor kidney function closely. Consult a clinician for specific dosing.
Hepatic ImpairmentDose reduction may be necessary in patients with liver impairment. Monitor liver function closely. Consult a clinician for specific dosing.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose varies by indication and protocol. It should not exceed the dose prescribed by your doctor.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Eat small, frequent meals
Helps manage nausea.
Grapefruit
Avoid
May increase drug levels.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 You miss your scheduled appointment for the injection
→ Contact your doctor as soon as possible to reschedule.
💡 Do not attempt to self-administer.

⚠️ Side Effects of alphalan 50mg injection

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (10-30%))
Take anti-nausea medication as prescribed. Eat small, frequent meals.
Vomiting (Common (10-30%))
Stay hydrated. Contact doctor if severe.
Diarrhea (Common (10-30%))
Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid spicy foods.
Mouth sores (Common (10-30%))
Maintain good oral hygiene. Use prescribed mouth rinses.
Fatigue (Common (10-30%))
Rest adequately. Pace activities.
Hair loss (Common (10-30%))
Usually reversible. Use gentle hair care.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Bone marrow suppression (Common (10-30%))
Regular blood tests are required. Report any signs of infection, bleeding, or bruising.
Severe allergic reactions (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
Lung toxicity (Rare (<0.1%))
Report any new or worsening cough or shortness of breath.
Liver toxicity (Rare (<0.1%))
Report yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain.
Secondary cancers (Rare (<0.1%))
Long-term monitoring is necessary.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Hemolytic anemia
Report unusual tiredness or jaundice.
Interstitial pneumonitis
Seek medical attention for breathing difficulties.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Live vaccines Major
Cyclosporine Major
Warfarin Moderate
Phenytoin Moderate
Cimetidine Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Live vaccines
  • Cyclosporine
  • Nalidixic acid

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Warfarin
  • Phenytoin

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase the risk of stomach irritation and liver problems. It is best to avoid alcohol while receiving this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to melphalan","Severe bone marrow suppression","Active infection","Pregnancy","Breastfeeding"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Bone marrow suppression is common and may be severe. Monitor blood counts closely.","This medicine can cause secondary cancers. Long-term monitoring is required.","Avoid live vaccines during treatment.","Use effective contraception during and after treatment.","This medicine may impair fertility. Discuss fertility preservation options before treatment.","Administer with caution in patients with kidney or liver impairment."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

It is not known whether melphalan is excreted in human milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, breastfeeding should be discontinued during treatment.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose can cause severe bone marrow suppression, gastrointestinal toxicity, and other serious effects. There is no specific antidote. Treatment is supportive, including blood transfusions, antibiotics, and growth factors. In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention.

⏰ Missed Dose

This medicine is given by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting. If you miss an appointment for your dose, contact your doctor as soon as possible to reschedule. Do not attempt to self-administer.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

This medicine must be given under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor blood counts, liver function, and kidney function. Avoid contact with people who have infections. Do not receive live vaccines while on this medicine. Use effective contraception during treatment and for some time after, as this medicine can harm an unborn baby. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Drink plenty of fluids to help prevent kidney problems. Report any signs of infection, unusual bleeding, or bruising promptly.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more susceptible to bone marrow suppression and other side effects. Dose adjustments and close monitoring are recommended.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

This medicine can harm an unborn baby. Use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after. Discuss pregnancy planning with your doctor before starting treatment.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine may impair wound healing and increase infection risk. Inform your surgeon if you are on this medicine. Timing of surgery should be discussed with your oncologist.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are on this medicine. It may increase the risk of bleeding and infection. Dental work should be coordinated with your oncologist.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy diet to support your immune system.
🥗
Get adequate rest and pace your activities.
😴
Stay well hydrated.
💧
Avoid crowds and people with infections.
🧘
Practice good hand hygiene.
🌞
Follow up regularly with your healthcare team.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Fatigue is common; adjust activity levels as needed. Avoid strenuous exercise if you feel tired or have low blood counts. Consult your doctor before starting any exercise program.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Eat small, frequent meals to manage nausea.
Include protein-rich foods to support healing.
Stay well hydrated.
Avoid spicy or greasy foods if you have mouth sores or nausea.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause fatigue, making it difficult to work during treatment. Discuss with your employer about flexible arrangements. Avoid driving if you feel tired or dizzy.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop this medicine without consulting your doctor. Treatment duration is determined by your oncologist based on your response and side effects.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may increase the risk of secondary cancers, bone marrow suppression, and organ toxicity. Regular monitoring of blood counts, liver, and kidney function is required. Discuss any long-term concerns with your doctor.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Other chemotherapy agents

Depending on the cancer type, other chemotherapy drugs may be used.

Evidence: Well-established
Targeted therapy

For multiple myeloma, targeted therapies may be used.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

Live vaccines should be avoided during treatment. Inactivated vaccines may be given, but response may be reduced. Consult your doctor before any vaccination.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C

❌ DON'T

Do not freeze

✅ DO

Keep in original packaging

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Protect from light

❌ DON'T

Do not store at room temperature for extended periods

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

This medicine is administered in a healthcare setting, so travel is not applicable for self-administration. If you need to travel for treatment, carry your prescription and medical records. Ensure the clinic can store the medicine properly. Plan for adequate rest during travel. Consult your doctor before making travel plans.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 65-year-old man with multiple myeloma
He received this medicine as part of his chemotherapy regimen. He experienced fatigue and nausea but with anti-nausea medication and rest, he managed. His blood counts were monitored closely, and he received growth factor support. After several cycles, his myeloma markers improved significantly.
💡 Lesson: Close monitoring and supportive care are essential to manage side effects and improve outcomes.
👤 A 52-year-old woman with ovarian cancer
She received this medicine via regional perfusion. She experienced mouth sores and hair loss but found relief with prescribed mouth rinses and a wig. She emphasized the importance of staying hydrated and following the medical team's advice.
💡 Lesson: Supportive care measures can significantly improve quality of life during treatment.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: The effects on cancer cells begin immediately, but it may take several weeks to see improvement in symptoms or blood tests.

Q: How is this medicine given?

A: It is given as an intravenous infusion by a healthcare professional.

Q: What should I avoid while on this medicine?

A: Avoid live vaccines, contact with people who have infections, and alcohol. Use contraception.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine at home?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for alphalan 50mg injection

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can be taken at home.
    Fact: This medicine must be given by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting.
  • Myth: This medicine has no serious side effects.
    Fact: This medicine can cause severe bone marrow suppression and other serious side effects.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Melphalan 50 mg injection

Brand Alternatives

  • Alphalan 50mg injection

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Melphalan","class":"Alkylating agent","route":"Intravenous","main_use":"Multiple myeloma"},{"medicine":"Cyclophosphamide","class":"Alkylating agent","route":"Oral/Intravenous","main_use":"Various cancers"}]

😊 Was this information helpful?

Browse Medicines A-Z

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Back to Medicines Directory